As part of efforts towards tackling the recurring clashes between farmers and herders in Oyo State, the chairman, Oluyole local government area, Hon Akeem Olatunji has warned that he will not condone any act of lawlessness.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting with security agencies, traditional rulers, farmers, and herders, Olatunji said the measure was part of efforts to deepen dialogue among stakeholders, especially farmers and herders.
According to the chairman, the forum focused on peculiar issues bordering on public peace and security as well as implementation of measures to ensure lasting solutions in the local government.
Olatunji, who noted that both farmers and herders are critical stakeholders in the development of the LG’s socio-economy and growth, frowned at the incessant clashes between them, and warned that his administration would not condone any act of lawlessness.
Acknowledging efforts of Governor Seyi Makinde on security matters, Olatunji also maintained that no governor would invest billions of naira on procuring security operational vehicles and communication gadgets as well as motorcycles to bolster the state’s security architecture and expect chaos.
He enlightened stakeholders on the effectiveness of the Rule of Law across the state, stressing that nobody regardless of their social status would be allowed to truncate the peace and tranquility of Oluyole LGA.
He called on the stakeholders to deepen collaboration in their various domains to ensure that the right information is passed across over anything untoward.
Olatunji reaffirmed his commitment in line with the vision of Governor Makinde on security, to leave no stone unturned and to ensure that the LG remains a safe place where people and other investments are secured.
Director-General of Oyo State Mobilisation Agency for Socio-Economic Development (OYMASED), Dr. Morounkola Thomas, earlier, highlighted Governor Makinde’s commitment to security, citing the creation of Amotekun, a security outfit that has collaborated with law enforcement agencies to maintain peace in the state.
“Governor Makinde believes in peaceful coexistence of all resident in the state regardless of your tribe or religion, as well as a peaceful environment, that’s why he has invested so much on security.
“The result is the creation of Amotekun, who have joined hands with law enforcement agents in the state to bring about peace in the state and it is expected that everyone will cooperate with government at both state and local government levels to sustain the relative peace and tranquility”, he said.
Also, the Divisional Police Officer of Alaro Division, CSP Olaiya Martins, lamented instances where security agents collaborated with criminal elements, describing it as betrayal of public trust, similar to ‘Judas Iscariot’s.
He suggested that in addition to curbing the rising farmers/herders conflicts, government should create a special taskforce against open grazing, just as it did for land grabbing.
He clarified that unregulated grazing has led to violence, destruction of farmlands, and insecurity.
“A dedicated taskforce will enforce laws, protect farmers, and ensure peaceful coexistence. Security agencies must uphold their duty with integrity, not compromise it,” he said.
Similarly, the Oyo State Deputy Commandant of Agro Rangers, DC Alonge Olugbenga, proposed the creation of identification system for farmers and their cattle.
He further recommended that every farmer should possess an official identity, while each cow should be tagged for easy identification.
This, he explained, would help trace and address any case of misconduct involving livestock.
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